1. Jars of clay (7-9)

God made us from the dust of the ground and breathed into us the breath of life. We are like jars of clay. But when God's Spirit fills us, we are alive and beautiful. God's Spirit gives us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. We cannot boast of any power or virtue in ourselves, but because Jesus dwells within, we are not crushed nor do we despair when we are misunderstood or persecuted or struck down.

2. Always carrying around the death of Jesus (10-12)

Jesus' people love Jesus' cross. It is his death on the cross that sets us free from the power of sin. The Spirit of God applies the blood to our hearts and lives. We die with him daily, so that his life may be revealed in us, and the gospel shared with others.

Application: Lord, fill this jar of clay with your own Presence. Help me to love your cross, and die daily to myself.
One Word: The treasure in earthen vessels